The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) is bringing its mobile household hazardous waste collection service to Henry County on Saturday, Aug. 17, offering locals a chance to dispose of their potentially dangerous household chemicals safely and responsibly. As per the announcement by TDEC, the event caters to a wide range of waste materials typically categorized as flammable, toxic, reactive, and/or corrosive, including items such as cleaning fluids, pesticides, and mercury-containing devices.
In a statement obtained by TDEC, Commissioner David Salyers expressed his desire for Tennesseans to find recycling these materials convenient. "We want it to be convenient for Tennesseans to recycle household hazardous waste, and this collection service is a great way to show that commitment," Salyers said. Residents from beyond the county lines are also welcome to participate in, the event, there's no need to be a Henry County resident to join in the efforts of eco-friendly disposal. Since 1993, the program has seen the safe discardment of over 24 million pounds of hazardous household material through more than 1,500 collection events.
There’s a checklist of acceptable items including aerosols, adhesives, lithium and button batteries, medications, brake fluid, swimming pool chemicals, and paint thinner as well as sturdy containers for used needles. Ammunition, explosives, alkaline batteries, paint, electronics, and any containers devoid of contents should find other places for disposal, in other, more routine trash disposal means. For those uncertain if their waste is eligible or needing an appointment for disposing of Very Small Quantity Generator Waste, which comes from non-household sources, they can call (615) 643-3170 for guidance.
TDEC advises putting containers in sturdy boxes with newspaper or plastic lining to avoid messes and mixing during transit, and keep them out of reach from kids and pets. Local residents looking to unload batteries, oil, paint, antifreeze, or electronic scrap — collectively known as BOPAE — are encouraged to reach out to their local solid waste department for appropriate collection sites. According to the state's announcement, these materials, when properly managed, pose minimal hazard and are not suited for the household hazardous waste events.
